Japan has officially declared a nationwide influenza epidemic after a sudden and sharp rise in flu cases. Health authorities said that in just one week, 4,030 people were treated for influenza, crossing the country’s epidemic threshold. The flu season has also started five weeks earlier than usual, causing concern among doctors and officials. So far, 135 schools, kindergartens, and childcare centres have been closed because of outbreaks among children, which is three times higher than last year’s numbers.

Experts warn that this year’s flu virus seems to be spreading faster and changing more quickly than before. New research says that the virus is also becoming resistant to common medicines, which makes it harder to treat. Dr Tsukamoto, a flu researcher, explained that Japan is seeing its second-earliest flu outbreak in the past 20 years. She added that similar resistance is being reported in other parts of the world, too.

Reason for rapid spread

One major reason for this rapid spread, scientists say, is the return of international travel and mass tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic. More people are moving across countries, which makes it easier for viruses to travel and adapt to new environments. Dr Tsukamoto pointed out that as people move around more, the virus is finding new places and conditions to survive and evolve.

The Japanese government’s Ministry of Health confirmed that the flu outbreak officially crossed the epidemic mark on October 3. The number of patients rose by nearly 1,000 cases from the previous week, showing how quickly the situation is worsening.

How to protect yourself from the flu

Health officials are urging everyone to take simple preventive steps, like washing hands often, wearing masks in crowded areas, keeping rooms well-ventilated, and getting vaccinated. Dr Tsukamoto said she plans to get her own flu shot soon and encouraged others to do the same.

The warning also applies to foreign tourists visiting Japan. Travel expert Ashley Harvey said it is unclear whether vaccines taken abroad will protect against Japan’s current flu strain. However, he advised travellers to follow basic hygiene measures and stay alert.